The Difference Between Onboarding and Orientation

What exactly is Onboarding?

Now a days when you are hired, you go through an onboarding process. This is not new and unusual for new employees to experience; with technology increasing becoming a part of every business onboarding has become a revolutionary process for employers. Onboarding consist of multiple task for the new employee, which can be done in person and through an online process. Both processes are required for the new hire to know their responsibilities as well as what is expected of their employee-employer relationship. It is also during this time that department heads, co-workers, and H.R. are introduced and what there connections will be with the new hires.

Orientation and How it Works 

Orientation is a little different from onboarding, one of the major differences is the time frame used for new employees to form a relationship with their employer. Orientations are typically a one day event that is usually centered around a large conference room, classroom, or auditorium. New hires are immersed into the overall content of the employer and only focuses on their role in the company. In the end of the orientation, the new hires should be ready for training and become a viable part of the company. 

Onboarding and Orientation Working Together

Orientation and onboarding must exist together; for one can not fully get the new employee organized into their new environment. A well rounded onboarding process helps aid in the employee's understanding and commitment to the organization; and lower their chances of experiencing anxiety. The phases used with onboarding consist of the following steps:

• Welcome - It is at this opportunity that an extended welcome is given to the new employees. It is also an opportunity for the employer to make sure that everything the new hire needs is available and waiting for them at their desk in their department.
  
• Introductions - New hires get to meet with new co-workers and learn about the organization and its hierarchy system. This is also a way for the employer to promote its company culture.
  
• Mentoring - A great chance for the new hire to meet team leaders and managers that they can turn to for assistance.
  

These are just a few of the opportunities that onboarding and orientation provide when they are used together. This combination also aids in avoiding common mistakes that can be costly for an employer. These tips also help keeping your employees happy and boost the morale for the overall company.